W/R: Quarry explosion victims at Kobenandohkrom still await compensation after two years

Nearly two years after a devastating explosion tore through Kobenandohkrom, a rural community in the Shama District of the Western Region, many victims are still waiting for full compensation.

The explosion, which occurred at the STA Addsams Enterprise quarry site—formerly known as OMNI Quarry Limited—on September 10, 2023, resulted in four deaths, dozens of injuries, and widespread destruction of property. Investigations later revealed that the blast originated from an unapproved storage facility for explosives.

Authorities concluded that the company was operating illegally. In response, the Minerals Commission reassigned its Western Regional Director and several other officials, while the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) also transferred its regional head to Accra, triggering public speculation about regulatory lapses.

Despite these official actions, many affected residents remain in limbo.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on Connect FM’s Asem Yi Dzi Ka show, the Presiding Member of the Shama District Assembly, Emmanuel Owua-Wie, voiced concern over the stalled compensation process.

“They started paying the compensations for affected persons in Assokor Essaman through Kobenandohkrom to Ohiamadwen. But everything came to a halt during the elections and even after,” he revealed.

Mr. Owua-Wie noted that while assessments were completed in 2023, several victims—especially in hard-hit communities—have yet to receive a pesewa. He attributed the delay to a lack of follow-through during the 2024 election period, which further deepened the frustrations of affected families.

He pledged to take up the matter with the Assembly to ensure no victim is left behind.

“We have considered inviting the company for deliberation. We still have the data on the affected persons…from mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators, land and buildings, we have it all. We will make sure we continue from where they ended,” he assured.

He also highlighted the plight of families who lost loved ones in the blast and are now struggling without support.

“There are unresolved issues for those who lost their lives to this explosion. Some have dependents, and they continuously call on me for an update. We now have a new DCE, and we are hoping to draw his attention to this matter,” he added.

The tragic incident, attributed to corporate negligence, left a deep scar on the district. And while some administrative heads have changed and investigations have moved forward, the human impact of that midnight blast still lingers in the lives of many waiting for justice and redress.